Reducing Your Risk of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Because
PTSD
is usually a delayed responses to events over which you had no control, it is nearly impossible to reduce your risk. However, you can reduce your risk for negative psychological consequences after experiencing
trauma
with a variety of lifestyle and psychiatric techniques.

General Guidelines

Seek out mental health counseling.

Join a support group.

Keep in touch with family and friends.

Relocate to a safer neighborhood, if necessary.

Join an alcohol or drug treatment program.

Begin a regular exercise program.

Get involved with your community.

Seek Mental Health Counseling

When you are dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, counseling can help you to understand and deal with these feelings. Dealing with these feelings may help reduce the chances that you'll develop PTSD. There is a variety of
styles of counseling
available. Talk with your doctor about the best one for you.

Join a Support Group

Many communities have
support groups
for survivors of trauma. Groups can provide emotional support and understanding to help you cope with your feelings. It may feel awkward to meet new people and talk about yourself, but with regular attendance most people eventually feel more trusting and open.

Keep in Touch With Family and Friends

Work at improving your relationships with your partner or spouse, family, and friends. The mutual support will aid in your healing. You will feel more “normal” as you increase your social support.

Relocate to a Safer Neighborhood

After surviving a trauma, you are likely to feel that the world is a dangerous place and that your chances of being harmed are high. If you live in a high-crime area, your beliefs and fears will be even worse. If possible, move to a quieter and safer neighborhood.

Join an Alcohol or Drug Treatment Program

Many survivors of trauma use
alcohol
or
drugs
to help them deal with or forget their feelings about the trauma. While this may seem to have some benefits in the short-term, it always makes things worse in the long-term. If you are using alcohol or drugs to cope with trauma, get help so that you can stop. A
treatment program
or group program is often the most effective way to stop using alcohol or drugs.
Ask your doctor for referrals for treatment.

Begin a Regular Exercise Program

Exercise can provide a healthy outlet for your emotions, distract you from worries and disturbing memories, and help increase your self-esteem and feelings of control.
Walking
, jogging,
swimming
,
weight lifting
, and other forms of exercise can help reduce physical tension. Talk to your doctor before you start an exercise program.

For more information on starting a regular exercise program,
click here
.

Get Involved With Your Community

Get involved in a community activity such as volunteering, especially if you’re not working. Whether you choose to work with youth programs, the elderly, literacy programs, or hospital services, or to take part in community sports, it’s important to feel that you are making a contribution.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.